Tyree AME Church Restoration Project

The Tyree African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church Restoration Project continues the restoration of the historic Germantown community in Berlin, Maryland. Germantown is the oldest black community in Berlin. Residents first established New Bethel Methodist Church in 1855 during slavery. Over a half century later, Tyree was organized in 1913. During that period churches were the places where both slaves and free Africans received all of their support including schooling. By 1922, the Germantown School, a Rosenwald School, was established here to educate blacks in the community. Many residents attended that school and today it is a museum and community center. Together, the three structures and the history they represent, tell the story of Germantown. Tyree’s Restoration project is focused on restoring to safety and soundness the 107-year-old sanctuary with its slatted ceiling, curved pews, stained glass windows and plastered walls. Our hope is that it can be restored to use and beauty and visitors who visit Germantown can begin their tour at Tyree. However, time and the lack of activity during the Pandemic has revealed mold, structural issues and other problems that require that the sanctuary be closed. Supporting beams in the floor and walls must be corrected if the structure is to survive another 107 years. Moldy soft materials and carpet must be removed and wall coverings cleaned and restored. HVAC systems must be replaced and dehumidifiers installed to reduce the moisture causing mold. And everything that is torn out must be replaced. As the spring and summer approach and rain and temperatures increase moisture and humidity, the sanctuary and the rooms affected and infected will deteriorate further. Time is of the essence. Please help us restore this part of our church.